Located in Morbihan, in the heart of Southern Brittany, Lorient is a port city known for its five harbors (commercial, fishing, military, pleasure and passenger). You can also visit the Cité de la Voile Éric Tabarly, an interactive museum paying tribute to the famous French sailor, and the Keroman submarine base, an imposing vestige of the Second World War, which plunges you into the secret history of naval warfare. These two landmarks alone illustrate Lorient's rich maritime heritage. But the city doesn't stop there: between museums, festivals, wilderness and islands accessible by boat, Lorient is full of treasures to explore. What to do and see in Lorient? Here are the 10 must-sees!
1. The Cité de la Voile Éric Tabarly, a must-see in Lorient
Located in Lorient, the Cité de la Voile is an exhibition center and multimedia museum entirely dedicated to the world of sailing. The only one of its kind in Europe, it offers a captivating immersion in this fascinating world, from the earliest techniques of sailboat construction to the most recent innovations, via the great stories of sailing. Enthusiasts may even have the chance to admire Éric Tabarly's famous Pen Duick yachts, true legends of the sea, as they pass through Lorient. The center is packed with activities for all ages: themed workshops, seasonal events, sea outings... there's something for everyone. Allow over three hours for a visit rich in discovery and emotion.
2. What to do in Lorient A family visit to the Lorient submarine museum
Immerse yourself in the heart of Keroman, in an impressive 15-meter-high bunker, transformed into an underwater museum in 1999. Housed in the largest former submarine (U-Boat) base built during the Second World War, this place steeped in history offers a unique visit. You'll discover the world's oldest training simulator for submariners, exceptionally accessible to the public - an exclusive in Europe! The museum also plunges you into the world of underwater survival, through the training techniques used by crews. The visit is enhanced by interactive terminals, digital tablets and a specially designed children's trail, making it a fun and instructive experience for all ages to enjoy in Lorient.
Did you know? Lorient is one of the Top 20 cities in France to live in!
3. Visit the Flore submarine
That's it, you've discovered the daily life of submariners and the workings of these impressive military vessels, as well as the strategic role played by the port of Lorient throughout history. The tour now continues on board a real submarine, the Flore, equipped with an immersive audio guide retracing life on board. For young explorers (and older ones too!), two "secret missions" treasure hunts are available free of charge on smartphone or tablet, for a fun and interactive discovery. Throughout the year, special events offer unique experiences: evening visits, European Museum Night, European Heritage Days... An unusual way to discover La Flore and its museum.
Read more: What to do and see in Morbihan and its Gulf? Top 11 most beautiful spots
4. Take a boat cruise to the island of Groix
The Escal'Ouest shipping company offers guided cruises to the island of Groix, which you can book here. For a memorable getaway, climb aboard one of the Escal'Ouest ships, which celebrated its 35th anniversary in 2024! From April to September, the company offers regular crossings from Lorient La Base and Port-Louis. Aboard one of its four boats, let the sea breeze lull you to sleep as you explore the Lorient roadstead on a guided cruise. Want to get off the beaten track? Try your hand at sea fishing, or rent a boat for an unforgettable event. And if you're lucky, you might even come across a few dolphins along the way.
Book my ferry tickets to the island of Groix
5. Discover Lorient's architectural treasures on an urban walking tour
Well-known for its maritime activity, Lorient is a commercial port, a military port and an essential anchorage for sailors from all over the world. But beyond its strong link with the sea, Lorient is also a City of Art and History, rich in often little-known architectural treasures. To unveil its secrets, the city offers several urban walking itinerariesincluding a 5-kilometre circuit starting from the Hôtel Gabriel. This route crosses the city center and skirts the quays, while offering nature breaks in the heart of Lorient's green spaces. A great way to discover the city in a different way, free of charge, in around two hours, on a route accessible to all.
6. What to do in Lorient A family outing with children to the cité des Moussaillons
Youngsters now have their own adventure playground at the Cité de la Voile de Lorient La Base! Since October, children aged 2 to 12 have been able to immerse themselves in the maritime world through a huge play area designed to resemble the interior of a sailboat. Over an area of 1,000 m², apprentice sailors can discover what life is like on board: ropes, crow's nests, interactive games... everything is brought together for a fun and colorful immersion in the world of sailing. An ideal family outing in the heart of this emblematic ocean racing port, where so many young sailors have set sail one day!
7. Behind the scenes of fishing and shipbuilding in Lorient
La Maison de la Mer offers fascinating guided tours behind the scenes of fishing and shipbuilding in Lorient . Gain access to places usually closed to the public, such as the fish auction or Ifremer's premises, and meet the industry's professionals. Several themed tours are available: La rade aux 3 000 navires, Ifremer, IDMer, Secrets de navire and La marée du jour.
Tip: the Explo'r@de mobile application and its interactive map allow you to explore the Lorient roadstead at your own pace.
8. Sipping a cocktail at Embruns, an off-the-beaten-track address
This is the kind of place we'd recommend without hesitation to that slightly picky friend, always on the lookout for originality. Anyone who loves modern, well-balanced, flavorful cuisine that's off the beaten track - on the plate and in the glass. Embruns is also a must for cocktail lovers. Whether classic or signature, each creation makes you want to try something new and be surprised by daring combinations. We're sure you'll find a friend, or a friend of a friend, to accompany you at the bar, in the dining room or on the pretty, colourful terrace!
9. Take a culinary tour of Lorient with Bretagne Food Tour
With Bretagne Food Tour in Lorient, discover Breton gastronomy through original culinary tours on foot, by bus or by boat. Enjoy unique, tasty experiences: sample island specialities aboard an old sailing ship, savour oysters and white wine on a motorized catamaran while admiring the harbour at sunset, stroll through the stalls of Les Halles and meet passionate craftsmen, or learn the art of turning crêpes. These gourmet itineraries invite you to explore Brittany's culinary wealth from an original angle, between land and sea.
10. What to do in Lorient Take part in the Festival Interceltique
For over 50 years, the Festival Interceltique de Lorient (FIL) has been a veritable cultural institution. Created in 1971, each year it brings together the Celtic nations: Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, Isle of Man, Galicia, Asturias, as well as the diasporas of Australia and Arcadia, not forgetting of course Brittany. Considered one of France's must-see music festivals, FIL is a passionate celebration of Celtic culture and traditions. More than 5,000 artists - musicians, dancers, visual artists, filmmakers - make it an unmissable global event for all lovers of the Celtic world. For 10 days in early August, over 300 events take place on various stages across the city:
- Celtic music concerts and shows, rich and varied
- Workshops and courses to discover Breton dance, the Celtic harp or traditional songs
- Celtic art and costume exhibitions in several cultural venues
- Fest-noz, typical night-time festivities featuring music and dance
- Traditional Celtic sports competitions
- Tasting of culinary specialities and typical drinks
- Craft market with a wide selection of Celtic products
Tempted? Find out more in our dedicated article Lorient Interceltic Festival: the guide.
Where to stay in Lorient?
Lorient, a dynamic port city in Southern Brittany, offers a variety of accommodation to suit all traveler profiles. Here's a selection of hotels and areas to stay, according to your preferences:
- The ideal hotel for travelers with pets: Hotel Cléria
Bookable right here, hotel Cléria is just a few minutes' walk from Lorient train station and close to the city center. We love the chic yet bohemian ambience, with its soft colors and enclosed patio where you can enjoy a cup of coffee while reading your favorite novel. Pets are welcome. You're sure to feel right at home. A must in southern Brittany.
- The family-friendly Victor Hugo
Bookable right here, the Victor Hugo is ideally located between the Marina, the Palais des Congrès, the town center and the Groix pier, and offers excellent service. The welcome is impeccable and it's one of the least expensive two-star hotels in Lorient. In short, a very pleasant family-run establishment, ideal for a stay in Brittany. We really enjoyed the excellent local breakfast.
- For an immersion in the marine world: Hotel Le Keroman
If you're coming to Lorient, why not immerse yourself in the maritime world by staying in the commercial port district? Bookable right here, hotel Le Keroman offers beautifully decorated, comfortable rooms. From the Hôtel La Perrière, you can quickly get to the embarkation area for the island of Groix or the Cité de la Voile.
